Ponce De Leon Foundation 2018 to 2023 Report

Per Scholas

In 2021, Per Scholas enrolled617 New Yorkers across 39 cycles. Throughout 2021 they have been able to provide tech toolkits —including laptops, headsets, Mifi devices,

and webcams—to all 572 New Yorkers enrolled in remote courses. This does not include the Raspberry Pi handheld computing devices, which were distributed to all 298 learners enrolled in their remote12-week IT Support course. These devices allow learners to participate in crucial "Break and Fix"exercises, providing learners enrolled in our remote courses the hands-on experience needed to enter entry-level tech roles. Per Scholas will maintain and expand its connections with the tech industry leaders in NYC, and 80% of graduates will find full-time employment in New York's tech industry within one year of graduation. Since 2019, the Ponce De Leon Foundation has supported our e ff orts to launch tech careers for New Yorkers, regardless of their previous educational, employment, or economic background. Since then, Per Scholas has trained approximately 1650 New Yorkers in leading tech skills, and over 1270 graduates have used these skills to jump start their careers.

Project FIND

While at the onset of COVID 19, our congregate services and activities were halted, the Co ff eehouse Senior Center advocated for and received special permission to provide grab-and-go meals five days a week to the homeless. Through this expanded Day for

Night initiative, we are serving hot, nutritious meals to 25 homeless individuals each day, Monday through Friday.In addition to receiving a hot, nutritious to-go meal, our participants are fortunate to have the support and assistance of our social worker. Some examples of the services provided throughout that time frame included referrals to area senior centers, food pantries, and soup kitchens; enrolling participants in Housing Connects; and assisting them with applications for programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid.

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